I'm a self-proclaimed tough sell when it comes to classic detective novels, but William Shaw's THE BIRDWATCHER made a convert out of me. I went into THE BIRDWATCHER a bit of a skeptic—and I came out a convert. A fantastic example of classic British crime, THE BIRDWATCHER is every bit true to its genre, from its pacing to its tone and its subject matter. But beyond its genre adherence, this book is really just excellent writing. Shaw is a skillful, beautiful writer whose book not only fully held my attention, but actually left me in tears at the end. Emotionally engaging, brooding, and masterfully plotted, THE BIRDWATCHER is a slow-burning mystery that highlights the very best of classic crime, with a quirky, endearing spirit all its own.